Шрила Бхактивинода Тхакур и ХВП
- TOVP.org

Близится день явления Его Божественной Милости Шрилы Бхактивиноды Тхакура, пионера в деле распространения сознания Кришны по всему миру, время великой радости и великого празднования, поскольку без его усилий у нас не было бы движения Харе Кришна и самой благоприятной возможности вернуться обратно к Богу.

Шрила Бхактивинода Тхакур сделал три главных предсказания, все из которых свершились. «Скоро придет человек, – писал он, – и он будет путешествовать по всему миру, чтобы распространить учение Господа Чайтаньи». Его второе предсказание: «Очень скоро воспевание Харинама санкиртаны распространится по всему миру. О, когда же придет тот день, когда люди из Америки, Англии, Франции, Германии и России возьмут караталы и мриданги и начнут воспевать в своих городах Харе Кришна?» Третье предсказание: «Когда придет тот день, когда светлокожие иностранцы придут в Шри Майяпур-дхаму и присоединятся к бенгальским вайшнавам в воспевании “Джайа Шачинандана, Джайа Шачинандана”. Когда наступит этот день?»

Однажды вечером Шрила Бхактивинода мирно сидел в своем доме в Годрумадвипе, Сурабхи-кундже, и смотрел поверх чистых вод реки Джаланги на Шри Майяпур. Прервавшись от написания произведений о преданном служении, он увидел яркое сияние, которое разливалось во всех направлениях из святой земли Шри Майяпура. Он увидел прекрасный золотой город, духовный город – исполнение мечты всех ачарьев гаудия-вайшнавской традиции – откуда однажды разольется чистая любовь к Богу и наводнит собой весь мир.

Этот «прекрасный золотой город» сейчас проявляется в Шридхаме Майяпуре, самом священном из всех святых мест вселенной. Шрила Бхактивинода сказал:

«Семь священных городов Навадвипы славятся тем, что способны даровать живому существу освобождение. Вот эти города – Айодхья, Матхура, Майяпур, Варанаси, Канчи, Авантипур и Дварака. Но самым возвышенным из них является Майяпур. Шри Махапрабху принес духовный мир Шветадвипы в Майяпур. Когда пройдет четыреста лет со дня явления Шри Чайтаньи Махапрабху, земля Майяпура-Шветадвипы станет важнейшей из всех священных мест. Человек, который живет здесь, автоматически избавляется от всех оскорблений и достигает высот чистого преданного служения».

«Джайва-дхарма», Бхактивинода Тхакур

Давайте же все прервемся от наших дел и подумаем над этими словами Шрилы Бхактивиноды и над важностью строительства предвиденного им «прекрасного золотого города». ХВП является неотъемлемой частью этого исторического пророчества, вместе мы сможем осуществить его и получим огромное благо от такого наивысшего служения. Этот проект так важен, что Шрила Прабхупада решительно заявил:

«Если вы построите этот храм, Шрила Бхактивинода Тхакур лично придет и заберет вас всех обратно к Богу».

Призываем вас в этот особенный день поддержать строительство ХВП, воспользовавшись новой возможностью для служения – спонсированием кирпича Гуру-парампары. Чтобы пожертвовать кирпич Гуру-парампары, на котором будет написано как ваше имя, так и имя вашего гуру, перейдите по ссылке: https://tovp.org/ru/donate/seva-opportunities/

НОВОСТИ ХВП – БУДЬТЕ В КУРСЕ

Посетите ХВП: www.tovp.org
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Поддержите ХВП: www.tovp.org/ru/donate/seva-opportunities/

The post Шрила Бхактивинода Тхакур и ХВП appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur and the TOVP
- TOVP.org

The appearance day of His Divine Grace Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur, the pioneer of spreading Krishna consciousness throughout the world, is upon us, and it is a time of great celebration and rejoicing, for without his efforts, we would not have the Hare Krishna Movement and the most auspicious opportunity to go back to Godhead.

Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura made three major predictions which have all come to pass: “A personality will soon appear,” he wrote, “and he will travel all over the world to spread the teachings of Lord Caitanya.” His second prediction: “Very soon the chanting of ‘Harinama sankirtana will be spread all over the world. Oh, when will that day come when people from America, England, France, Germany, Russia will take up karatals and mrdangas and chant Hare Krishna in their towns?” The third prediction: “When will that day come when the fair-skinned foreigners will come to Sri Mayapur-dhama and join with the Bengali Vaisnavas to chant, Jaya Sacinandana, Jaya Sacinandana. When will that day come?“

One evening, Srila Bhaktivinoda was sitting peacefully in his house in Godrumadvipa, Surabhi Kunja, looking toward Sri Mayapur over the clear waters of the Jalangi river. Pausing briefly from his devotional writings, he saw a brilliant effulgence shining out in all directions from the holy land of Sri Mayapur. It was a vision of a wonderful golden city, a spiritual city – the final fulfillment of the dreams of the Vaishnava acaryas – from where the entire world would one day become inundated with pure love of Godhead.

This “wonderful golden city” is now manifesting in Sridhama Mayapur, the most sacred of holy places in the universe. Srila Bhaktivinoda said:

“Of the seven holy places giving salvation – Ayodhya, Mathura, Gaya, Kashi, Kanchi, Avanti and Dwaravati – Sri Mayapur is the most important place of pilgrimage. Sriman Mahaprabhu with His advent made His own Svetadvipa descend here, and after four centuries after the disappearance of Sriman Mahaprabhu this place of pilgrimage Svetadvipa will be superior to all other places of pilgrimage of the world. Living in this place removes all sin and offenses and helps pure devotion to grow.”

Jaiva Dharma – Bhaktivinoda Thakur

Let us all pause to consider the above words of Srila Bhaktivinoda and the importance of building the “wonderful golden city” which he envisioned. The TOVP is an essential part of that prediction and together we can all help fulfill its historic manifestation and benefit immensely from this highest seva. It is such an important project that Srila Prabhupada said emphatically:

“If you all build this temple, Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur will personally come and take you all back to Godhead”.

Consider this special occasion to support the TOVP construction by taking advantage of the newest sponsoring option, the Guru Parampara Brick. Click on the link below to sponsor a Guru Parampara Brick today with both your name and your Guru’s name inscribed on it: https://tovp.org/donate/seva-opportunities/

TOVP NEWS AND UPDATES – STAY IN TOUCH

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The post Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakur and the TOVP appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

A Devotee is Always Vigilant, Vamana-dvadasi, September 26, 2012, Dallas
Giriraj Swami

Giriraj Swami read and spoke from Srimad-Bhagavatam 2.7.17 on the occasion of Vamana-dvadasi.

“In the beginning stage we sort of surrender but then we go back on our surrender. As Bhurijana Prabhu said, ‘They surrender, but then they take it back.’ This is common in Kali-yuga, because the atmosphere is so polluted and so surcharged with nescience that it is easy to be affected. The illusory energy will wear away one’s determination to surrender to Krishna. It is hard to withstand the assaults of Maya. Devotees who work in the material world, especially if they have to work in the association of nondevotees, face a constant barrage from the material nature. It is hard to maintain one’s determination. We can do so only if we have very strong spiritual association, with pure devotees, and strong spiritual practices to counteract the pernicious influence of materialistic people within a materialistic culture that is constantly bombarding us with messages that we should act independently, enjoy our senses to the hilt, and progress materially at all costs.

“We know that there are different stages in devotional service, and we should assess where we are. We should evaluate ourselves at every moment: Are we surrendering more to Krishna or to Maya—to the unsteady mind?”

Appearance Day of  Vamanadeva and Jiva Goswami (Right click to download)

Cow love starts young
→ Life With the Cows and Land



This summer the rains were abundant, and they brought lush grass for the cows.  The cows were in heaven. This video was taken during the summer and features a two-year-old boy and his growing attraction for the cows. His name is Bhima.

Bhima is Balaji's brother. You may be familiar with Balaji as he has been in quite a few of our cow videos from the age of two to now (he is now nine years old).

Bhima has been growing up with the cows. The cows are a big part of his little world. He likes to call the cows when we move them from one pasture to another. He also likes to ride and sometimes drive the ATV to visit the cows in the pasture. The ISCOWP cows are generally not afraid of people and considerate of Bhima. They know that on the ISCOWP farm cows are protected. Therefore Bhima has a positive experience, and the hope is he will protect and love cows and never eat them when he grows up. The hope is also that the viewer of this video will understand cows have feelings and deserve to be loved and protected.

Молитва у лотосных стоп Господа
→ Traveling Monk

1) My Lord: I submit the following prayer at Your holy feet: I do not pray to You for physical leisure, for learning, wealth, or followers.

2) I do not pray for heaven or salvation. I do not pray for any of these opulences.

3) In whatever birth I take, wherever my karma leads me, let me sing the glories of Your Holy Name birth after birth.

4) This alone is my cherished hope, my aspiration, my prayer at Your lotus feet: Let causeless and uninterrupted devotion awaken within my heart and flow towards You.

5) Let me love Your lotus feet as much as I now love sense gratification; transfer my affection from the objects of the senses to Your lotus feet.

6) In danger or success, good fortune or disaster, let me remain equipoised. And let my affection for You increase day by day by the influence of the Holy Name.

7) Whether I live as bird or beast, in heaven or in hell, let the humble Bhaktivinoda always cherish bhakti in his heart of hearts.

[ Srila Bhaktivinode Thakur, Prabhu Tava Pada Yuge, Gita-vali ]

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10212719693370169&set=a.3707173840886&type=3&theater

Indulekha Devi –The Leader of the Messengers
→ Mayapur.com

In 1986, just before the annual Gaura Purnima Festival, Sri Inulekha devi and three other sakhis were installed in Sri Dham Mayapur and joined Sri Sri Radha Madhava on the altar.  Indulekha Devi stands next to Visakha Devi, second gopi on Srimati Radharani’s right. Sri Indulekha Devi is one of the eight principle gopis, or […]

The post Indulekha Devi –The Leader of the Messengers appeared first on Mayapur.com.

Campakalata Devi- The Expert Debater
→ Mayapur.com

Campakalata Devi– The Expert Debater Campakalata Sakhi is one dayyounger to Srimati Radharani. Her appearance is celebrated a day after Radhastami. Just before the annual Gaura Purnima festival in Mayapur in 1986.Campakalata Devi, along with three other sakhis, was installed and joined Sri Sri Radha Madhava on the altar. She stands next to Lalita Devi, […]

The post Campakalata Devi- The Expert Debater appeared first on Mayapur.com.

Sri Navadvipa Astakrosa Parikrama- Invitation
→ Mayapur.com

We are delighted to inform you all that the grand Asta Krosa Parikrama (November 16-19th, 2018) is being organized by ISKCON Mayapur to fulfil the desire of Srila Bhaktivinoda Thakura. Devotees of Lord Sacinandana Gaurahari will reap the tremendous benefits of participating in the Parikrama of Sri Navadvipa during the most auspicious month of Karthika  […]

The post Sri Navadvipa Astakrosa Parikrama- Invitation appeared first on Mayapur.com.

Sri Visakha Devi – Srimati Radhika’s Dearmost Friend
→ Mayapur.com

Radhastami is also the appearance day of Sri Visakha Devi -Srimati Radhika’s dearmost friend.Just prior to the annual Gaura Purnima festival of 1986, Srimati Visakha Devi, along with three other principle sakhis, was installed in the Sri Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir and joined Sri Sri Radha Madhava on the altar. She stands directly next to Srimati […]

The post Sri Visakha Devi – Srimati Radhika’s Dearmost Friend appeared first on Mayapur.com.

Saturday, September 15th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Kobleve, Ukraine

Last Day in the Ukraine

Today is the one year anniversary of my finishing the U.S. walk in San Francisco. We touched that Pacific Ocean and sprinkled water on our head as a blessing.  From the Atlantic to the Pacific, an adventure was completed.  I don’t regret it.

Now tonight, closing ceremonies took place at the resort in the Ukraine to denote an appreciation of a great party.  I always praise our guru, Srila Prabhupada, for providing a redefinition of what a party is.  No booze, no drugs, no sex, no bad music.  It’s revolutionary.

Today we also marked the last installment of my “Kirtan Standards Seminar.”  The group who came to listen was very regulated, numbering at about one hundred each day.  They were interested in continuity.  Each night the main pandal(tent) was filled with hundreds of enthusiastic bhakti-yogisblissed on kirtan.

Also today, I was in the hot seat—the vyasasan, or the speaker’s chair.  Yes, I was the class-giver, speaking from the book Bhagavatam4.22.22, on the topic of increasing attachment to the Supreme. Sanat Kumar suggests three things: 1) be attentive to devotional rules, 2) engage in honouring the deity and 3) hear, and chant about the glories of the Supreme.

The Bhakti-Sangamais coming to a close, and I will miss its sweetness and so many brothers and sisters who are about to depart for their respective areas.  My peers have been a pleasure to be with, although I admit to some fear spasms when I sat before the final group of such great proportion.

May the Source be with you!
5 km


Friday, September 14th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Kobleve, Ukraine

Sing Dance Sweat

It has been almost one year since I became a senior citizen.  At age 65, I don’t always feel it, but sometimes yes.  With the energy output of leading kirtanand dance moves, I feel like a live wire at times.

The weather has been mostly damp and a little on the cool side and stiffness of muscles can be a bit of a reality when waking in the morning.  The way to address this issue is to engage in some hot bhaktiyoga. Sing, dance, sweat, could be the best formula or prescription.  If I had begun stiff, I no longer felt it after a few sways, spins, whirls or twirls.

If you look up the word ‘dance’ you’ll come up with something like, “A series of steps and movements that match the speed and rhythm of a piece of music.”  The amazing therapy which comes thereafter is something remarkable in terms of achievement.    https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnu4QKHn7h5/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=rf3h00plsrm1

What I also find healing about this festival, the Bhakti Sangamin its 20thyear, is the location of our retreat, which clearly covers an area of a one kilometre walk.  You do that several times a day and the number gradually adds up.

I was going at a good clip on one of those short walks, avoiding puddles, just today, and I caught up with one monk senior to myself.  Jayadvaita Swami is one of those veterans of bhakti.  In age and wisdom, he exceeds me, so for a walking speed, I had to compromise and slow down.  That’s okay, just a few moments of the monk’s company and it’s worth it.

May the Source be with you!
6 km


Thursday, September 13th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Kobleve, Ukraine

Slimy Guys

“There were so many jellyfish in the Black Sea, you could hardly see the water,” I told my swimming companions.  Of course, that’s a slight exaggeration, but those spineless creatures were certainly in abundance.  One of them brushed my thigh.  He was a fair-sized one, hard to maneuver.  They contract and expand.  Once washed up on the beach, they appear like transparent plastic bags.  They are more or less pronounced dead.  I recall seeing one on the beach, at age five, when my Mom took me to Holland.  There on the sand lay one of Krishna’s interesting entities from the sea.  I remember people saying in Dutch to be careful, that they can give you a form of paralysis for some time.

I was reminded of an instance in Mayapura, India, when a professional Russian actor came to help us with our drama workshop.  He suggested as an exercise to imagine ourselves being in a large bowl of jello.  We were to move in that jello and eventually wiggle our way out.  It was interesting.

Dipping into the Black Sea was an experience from another angle apart from the slimy creatures.  The Black Sea is actually brown.  That colour doesn’t bother me necessarily.  The temperature of the sea was fine and the liquid did loosen my limbs somewhat.

In fact, I'm doing a bit more dancing than usual, which invokes a good sweat.  As my dear god brother, Niranjan Swami, expressed to me this afternoon, that as you progress in years, you do move less fluidly.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bnr_0GQnJdk/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=1i7obc9uk919o

May the Source be with you!
6 km

Wednesday, September 12th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Kobleve, Ukraine

Some Details

Much rain came.  We could just as well have paddled to thepandal. https://www.instagram.com/p/BnpYFk1Aaij/?utm_source=ig_share_sheet&igshid=l3xidhvrkpst
Pandalmeans tent.  It’s huge and can accommodate thousands.  The festival, called Bhakti Sangama, draws leaders from all parts of the globe.  By leaders, I refer to Hare Krishna practitioners. The balance of attendees are all bhakti-yogis.

Although rain had come overnight, the day was clear and the sun burst through.  I was tempted to view the Black Sea, so my brahmacharimonk assistant, Arjuna Krishna, led me there at sunset—the only opportunity.  We’ve been busy.

The seminar went on again and again with a triumphant turn-out—maybe one hundred. The seminar is designed to establish standards and good regulations on kirtanperformance.  Other than the presentation, I gave on this topic, I was on the schedule for two chanting sessions.  Leading the chants in the main pandaland a smaller one—but still big—was an honour.  Oh, how everyone danced!  I'm sure someone filmed it.

It was rather fun teaming up with Ajamila again, with he on the harmonium and I singing, then we switched to him singing while I backed that up with dancing in the crowds.  The two of us are like cheer-leaders.

Actually, quite a few Canadian bhaktascame, seasoned devotees like Samir from Montreal and Guru Prasad from Ottawa, as well as some women from Toronto.  Even Bhakti Raghava Swami, who has a leg missing, showed up.  He’s like our Terry Fox—the runner who managed to trek Canada to the middle point.  Heroes!

May the Source be with you!
3 km.


Tuesday, September 11th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Kobleve, Ukraine

Kirtan Is Life

Our retreat is located on the north shore of the Black Sea at the Vita Park Hotel, in a series of modern-looking units.  Outside my one window at #34, I have a pond with a fountain to look at. The door entrance opens to other units occupied by other devotee world travellers.

I’m giving seminars on Kirtan Standards.  Today was Day #1.  Attendees were approximately 120.  Our hall was full.  Considering there are maybe 5-6,000 registered, it is a relatively small number to show up for the talk, but people have many options.  I’m not complaining.  Incidentally, I dedicated my presentation to the victims of 9/11 in New York, the attack on the twin towers, in the year 2001. The feedback of that Day #1 went well.  https://www.payitforward911.org/

I’m also inclined to announce the loss of another brother (spiritual brother). Gunagrahi Goswami passed away from cancer last weekend in Vrndavana, India.  I looked up to him as a big brother, for it was when I joined in the spring of ’73 that he was well into administration at our Buffalo, New York centre. Always kind to others, he was an inspiration.  I know he’s doing better now in another abode.  For the last two years when I came to visit him he had a big kirtanat his dwelling every night.  So he did it the right way.  It was of no surprise that he was dying and would leave us.  He left prepared.  He invited me to Buenos Aires some years ago.  My annual visits to Argentina are because of him.  

And so I say to him, “Adios amigo!”  

May the Source be with you!
6 km



Monday, September 10th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Vienna / Odessa

Past to the Future

Three days ago Rajasuya from Brampton, Canada, drove me to an Iroquoian village to meet other devotees so that we could step back in time.  It really was a beautiful spot.  I could have stayed in the native longhouses forever and been inspired.

Today, after landing in Odessa, Ukraine, I was telling a young brahmacharimonk, Arjuna Krishna, about native life in Canada—the little I know.  He was fascinated by the lifestyles of then.  I gave him further history by way of mouth on the topic of the natives, the Jesuits, British, Americans, the exiles of the Indigenous Peoples, the Mormons and the slaves.  His fascination continued.

I had teamed up with Jayadvaita Swami, my senior God Brother—Go Bro—and we were able to chat it up all the way from Vienna to Odessa.  “Where is the world going?  How can we, in bhakti, make it better?”  Those kinds of topics.  I respect him so much.

We arrived at Vita Park Hotel, an actual resort village of great cabins.  (It put me back into the Iroquoian village, in a way.) Here I also met Lokanatha and Devamrta Swamis.  Lokanatha is the minister for padayatra, fest on foot, and will be bringing to the printer a book on Padayatrasoon.  Thousands of pilgrims have joined his journeys on foot throughout India and abroad.

Promoting the walking culture and simplification of lifestyle, are two big meditations and implementations of my life for a long time now.  Also, reading of Vedic culture—as in the books of Prabhupada—have helped me to reflect on a more glorious past.  It is not possible to step into a wholesome future without touching an experienced past.

May the Source be with you
0 km (flying & driving)



Sunday, September 9th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Brampton, Ontario

Common Goal

It has been a while since I’ve come to the ISKCON Centre in this fast-growing city. To some proportion, the attendance at the centre is also enjoying a growth.

I chose to speak from verse 10.9 of the Bhagavad-gitabecause it explores the notion of common unity.  The words that shape the verse are all positive, about engagement, being inclusive and occupied in the common objective—the Supreme. This verse is, in fact, sometimes referred to as one of the nutshell phrases of the entire Gita.

“I know I’ve spoken from this shlokabefore and delivered an explanation, but I’ll do so again and, as is natural, from a slightly different angle,” I said.  We highlighted the importance of collaboration and implementing unity and diversity.  This is a topic our guru, Srila Prabhupada, wanted us to discuss and implement.

A nice group!

A kind Rasaraj drove me to the airport in Toronto for a departure to Vienna, and then Odessa, for a retreat and seminars, but first we slipped in a few minutes with Savyasacin (Savy for short).  He and family live at the edge of Brampton.  His name stands for ‘expert archer,’ a name of Krishna’s warrior friend, Arjuna.

In that regard we must all aim properly toward our goal—to become clean within and without—and then shoot straight, toward the target, the lotus feet of Krishna. My God, we all could use an ounce of humility if not more.

May the Source be with you!
0 km

Saturday, September 8th, 2018
→ The Walking Monk

Campbellville, Ontario

Going Back in Time

Temperatures dropped to about 12°C, but that was okay for three families as we took to morning trekking around a unique body of water called Crawford Lake.  It is a very deep lake at 22 metres, cone-shaped at the bottom, with no oxygen at its base.  Corn pollen was found down there indicating the civilization of the Wendat (Hurons) lived nearby hundreds of years ago.  You have to check out the trees.

There is also a reconstructed village of longhouses where you can go inside and hear an interpreter describe and display the wares of the days gone by.  Very inspiring are the tools, footwear and cooking facilities of that more simple time ~1400 CE.  Moose, deer and beaver pelts line the ledges—their beds.

“I think we all need to get closer to the lifestyle of these indigenous people,” I mentioned to the group, who had all started growing plentiful gardens this spring, for the first time, in their suburban backyards.  The interpreter let us know that the diet of these native folks was mostly vegetarian.  Corn, beans and squash are known as The Three Sisters, something the First Nations of this area thrived on.

The evening exposed me to a more sophisticated setting, a mansion north of Toronto, where a large scale Janmasthami—Krishna’s birth celebration—was held.  Hundreds of people were accommodated.  I like these programs, lots of fun, only the feasting runs too late as in most of these types of events.  I am grateful to be part of community programs where the Supreme is the focal point.  Thanks to the dedicated Batra family.

It was a good day and it lasted a long time.

May the Source be with you!
3 km


Radhastami
→ Ramai Swami

In the Brihad-Gautamiya Tantra, Radharani is described as follows:

devi krishna-mayi prokta

radhika para-devata 

sarva-lakshmi-mayi sarva

kantih sammohini para

“The transcendental goddess Srimati Radharani is the direct counterpart of Lord Sri Krishna. She is the central figure for all the goddesses of fortune. She possesses all the attractiveness to attract the all-attractive Personality of Godhead. She is the primeval internal potency of the Lord.”

Srimati Radharani is the Supreme Goddess. Radharani is the queen of Vrndavana. She is most always seen with Lord Krishna. It is described that She is the Chief Associate and devotee of Lord Krishna, and topmost of all Goddesses. 

Her name means the She is the most excellent worshiper of Lord Krishna. However, She is also an expansion of the Lord’s energy. Since She is also an extension of Krishna, She is the feminine aspect of God. Thus, in the Gaudiya Vaishnava tradition, God is both male and female. They are One, but Krishna expands into two, Himself and Radharani, for the sake of divine loving pastimes.

Srimati Radharani’s appearance is celebrated in all ISKCON temples around the world. I was able to attend two celebrations, one in Brisbane and the other at Southport.

Зачем строить ХВП? Нам действительно нужен еще один храм? Часть 1
- TOVP.org

Иногда люди, особенно не являющиеся членами ИСККОН, спрашивают, в чем заключается необходимость в строительстве еще одного храма? Разве уже не достаточно храмов, особенно в Индии? Не лучше ли было потратить эти деньги на что-то более практичное, такое как помощь бедным, или строительство больниц и школ, или обеспечение пищей голодающих?

Существует большое множество хороших ответов на данный вопрос, и мы более детально обсудим их во 2 и 3 частях этой статьи. Но общий ответ заключается в том, что духовное возвышение общества является более важным, чем любое отдельно взятое материальное служение временному телу. Оно автоматически устраняет все вышеназванные недуги посредством открытия человеку научного знания о духовных принципах жизни в обществе.

Когда мы просто поливаем корни дерева, все прочие его части автоматически получают питание. Схожим образом, когда мы служим Господу, все Его неотъемлемые частицы, Его слуги, получают благо, как материальное, так и духовное. Таков главный принцип жизни в соответствии с нашей дхармой. Чем дальше человечество удаляется от Бога, тем больше оно страдает; чем ближе приближается к Богу, тем счастливее становится. Простая логика, и она работает просто. Таким образом, чем больше существует храмов, которые дают такое образование и обучают тому, как его применять на практике, тем лучше.

Иллюстрация Девида Линча -

Иллюстрация Девида Линча – “Поливай корень – Насладишься плодом”

НОВОСТИ ХВП – БУДЬТЕ В КУРСЕ

Посетите ХВП: www.tovp.org
Читайте о ХВП: www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
Смотрите о ХВП: www.youtube.com/user/tovpinfo
Поддержите ХВП: www.tovp.org/ru/donate/seva-opportunities/
Загрузите приложение ХВП для мобильного телефона: www.tovp.org/ru/announcements-ru/new-tovp-phone-app-goes-live/

The post Зачем строить ХВП? Нам действительно нужен еще один храм? Часть 1 appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

Why Build the TOVP? Do We Really Need Another Temple? Part 1
- TOVP.org

Sometimes people ask, especially non-members of ISKCON, what is the need for building another temple? Aren’t there enough temples already, especially in India? Wouldn’t it be better to spend the money on something more tangible like helping the poor, or to build hospitals and schools or to feed the starving?

There are many, many good answers to this question and we will present them in more detail in Parts 2 and 3 of this article. But the overall answer is that the spiritual upliftment of society is more important than any separate material service to the temporary body and will automatically bring about the removal of the very maladies stated above through a spiritual scientific system of living within society.

By simply watering the root of a tree all the other tree parts are simultaneously nourished. Similarly, by service to Godhead, all His part and parcel servants will be benefited, both materially and spiritually. This is a basic principle of dharmic life. The further mankind gets from God, the more he will suffer; the closer he gets to God, the more he will be happy. Simple logic and it simply works. So the more temples there are to facilitate this education and practice the better.

Painting by David Lynch - Water the Root to Enjoy the Fruit

Painting by David Lynch – Water the Root to Enjoy the Fruit

TOVP NEWS AND UPDATES – STAY IN TOUCH

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Support us at: www.tovp.org/donate/seva-opportunities

The post Why Build the TOVP? Do We Really Need Another Temple? Part 1 appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.

Celebrating Radhastami
→ KKSBlog

(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 21 September 2015, Pretoria, South Africa, Radhastami Lecture)

Today is the auspicious day of Radhastami, a day we must all spend meditating on Srimati Radharani. Since Radharani is the topmost and purest devotee of Krsna, in one sense, Radhastami is then the day of pure devotion. It is the day where whatever Krsna desires, becomes the forefront of all our activities and everything else is really meaningless. Srimati Radharani is the personification of this mood and on a day like this, we should gain inspiration from her effulgent devotional service. We should use the perspective of Radharani’s devotion to see our own surrendering and devotional service as one that needs nurturing and growing. Although it can be very difficult, this is the first theme of the day; developing unalloyed pure selfless devotion for Krsna.

The second aspect of this day is one of compassion. Srimati Radharani is the tender-hearted female counterpart of Krsna. She is known as the hladini shakti or the pleasure potency of Krsna, which is one of Krsna’s three energies, his internal energy. This energy of Krsna is completely spiritual and therefore, Srimati Radharani is full of compassion and mercy. It is said that Krsna cannot enjoy something that is material. Nothing material can attract him; no amount of wealth offered to Krsna can attract him because he is not drawn to the glitter of the material world. So this day of Radhastami is also a day of spiritual compassion; a day when mercy of Krsna can be easily attained through Srimati Radharani.

The article " Celebrating Radhastami " was published on KKSBlog.

A day of introspection
→ KKSBlog

(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 21 September 2015, Pretoria, South Africa, Radhastami Lecture)

Radhastami is very different to Janmastami. Janmastami is a big public festival that is widely celebrated and members from all parts of society take part in it; even non-devotees often get enthusiastic and do something auspicious on this day. Radhastami is however different. It is more of an intimate devotee in-house type festival where devotees come together to meditate on Srimati Radharani. It is truly a day of introspection, a day of soul-searching. On this day, it is not good enough to simply attend the temple, applaud Srimati Radharani and merely acknowledge her glorious ways. No, we must truly reflect and go deeper on the sacrifices Radharani is making, and naturally, we will get some inspiration and strength from her in our own personal endeavours and our spiritual life.

The article " A day of introspection " was published on KKSBlog.

The topmost love of Krsna
→ KKSBlog

(Kadamba Kanana Swami, 13 September 2013, Durban, South Africa, Radhastami Lecture)

Srimati Radharani has the potency to fully capture and satisfy Krsna, however then comes the greatest mystery of all time. The greatest mystery is that when Krsna leaves Vrndavan, he leaves Radharani in the ultimate separation. Krsna always promised to return from Mathura to Vrndavan, but he never did. He left Radharani in that condition of separation, which leaves us wondering, how is this happening?

It is understood that this mood of separation is the highest love that one can experience for Krsna because when one is in separation from Krsna, the attachment to Krsna increases significantly. The eagerness to be with Krsna and the remembrance of Krsna is much stronger during the separation mood than when it is in the presence of Krsna. So this is the most puzzling aspect of all of the teachings of Sri Caitanya Mahaprabhu, that the mood of separation experienced by Srimati Radharani is the topmost experience of the love of Krsna! This is completely bewildering!

In the Prema-Samputa, Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakur describes how Srimati Radharani used to live in Yavat. As she was married, she was having great difficulty in meeting Krsna and was therefore in the ultimate condition of separation. One day, in the courtyard of Radharani’s house, there appeared a very beautiful female form. She was far more than just an ordinary looking person; she was practically looking like a goddess. Srimati Radharani immediately sent her servant to inquire who this personality was, however the personality would not utter a word.

So Srimati Radharani finally went out herself and asked the personality, “We can understand that you must be suffering from some form of sadness, which is why you are not speaking, but rest assured that you are in good company of young girls here who can understand your sorrows. So please speak, as you will feel some relief once you tell us the cause of your sadness.”

The personality revealed that she was in fact a demi-goddess, who had appeared to see Radharani and express the sadness in her heart to Radharani. The distress that the demi-goddess was feeling was due to the way that Krsna was treating Srimati Radharani despite her dedication and pure love for him. She further expressed that all the other demigods were also seeing Srimati Radharani’s pain and could no longer tolerate it.

Srimati Radharani then responded, “No, you are not understanding this. When Krsna left Vrndavan, it was only externally that we got separated, because in reality, we are never separated. We are one in mind, one in thought, one in heart and one in feeling. Our love is so intensely one that we can only think of each other and so in this way, we are actually never separated even though we may appear to be.”

The demi-goddess hesitantly agreed to Radharani’s sentiments, but then challenged her, “I will believe in you, if you can bring Krsna here by simply thinking of him. Only then will I understand that you are not separated. Only if you can show me that he has become immediately aware of your desire and shows himself here.”

Srimati Radharani agreed to this and started meditating on Krsna in a deep thought, with a deep desire for Krsna to appear. In doing so, she closed her eyes to concentrate, and it was during this moment that the demi-goddess changed her form back to the original form of Krsna. When Radharani opened her eyes, she saw to her ecstasy that it was Krsna who now stood in front of her. So in this way Krsna was testing the love of Srimati Radharani to see the extent to which she was dedicated to him. And even though she was in separation from him, her faith was strong and her love was in no way diminished by this feeling of separation.

In this way, Srila Visvanatha Cakravarti Thakur sheds some light on the great mystery of separation and how a devotee, in separation from Krsna, is experiencing the greatest love, because when one is loving Krsna, even the slightest moment of not being with him becomes overwhelming. For us, we may be thinking, “Oh how nice. Swamis are speaking about pastimes of Radha and Krsna. Very nice, but what’s next?” Our minds are restless and the eagerness is simply not there. But what can assist us is reading, hearing and contemplating on such powerful experiences of Srimati Radharani, who even in the mood of separation, has such an intense remembrance of Krsna.

The article " The topmost love of Krsna " was published on KKSBlog.

Lalita Devi- The Guru of All Gopis
→ Mayapur.com

Just prior to the annual Gaura Purnima festival of 1986, Srimati Lalita devi, along with three other principle sakhis, was installed in the Sri Mayapur Candrodaya Mandir and joined Sri Sri Radha Madhava on the altar. She stands directly next to Sri Madhava on. Srimati Lalita devi is the foremost among the eight most confidential […]

The post Lalita Devi- The Guru of All Gopis appeared first on Mayapur.com.

The Creator of Sri Mayapur dhama
→ Mayapur.com

“(Therefore) Radha is parama-devata, the supreme goddess, and She is worshipable for everyone. She is the protectress of all, and She is the mother of the entire universe.” – Caitanya Caritamrita, Adi 4.89 Sri Navadvipa Mayapur Dhama is worshiped all over the creation as the holiest of holy dhamas, and the place from which pure […]

The post The Creator of Sri Mayapur dhama appeared first on Mayapur.com.

Seattle Rathayatra 2
→ Ramai Swami

The Seattle Rathayatra parade was on the second day of the festival. Lord Jagannatha, Balarama, Subhadra Devi rode majestically on Their cart, which was brought up by devotees from Los Angeles.

I was privileged to start the kirtan and was followed by great kirtaniyas like Ajamila Prabhu and Agnideva Prabhu. Hari Vilasa said he would lead but didn’t make it because he was preaching to so many people in the park.

The parade went for two hours and needless to say, it was ecstatic.

Радхаштами 2018 и ХВП
- TOVP.org

Радхаштами, божественное явление Шримати Радхарани, хладини-шакти или энергии насаждения и вечной возлюбленной Шри Кришны, считается гаудия-вайшнавами чуть ли не более сокровенным праздником, чем Джанмаштами. Без милости и благословений Радхи мы не сможем ощутить сладость Враджа-севы и вступить в самые чистые лилы в мадхурья-расе, являющиеся высшим совершенством према-бхакти. Изложенная ниже малоизвестная история, повествующая о тайном и божественном замысле создания Навадвипа-дхамы Самой Шримати Радхарани, пропитана тем самым настроением супружеской расы и всей глубиной маха-бхавы Радхи.

Призываем вас отпраздновать это благоприятное событие, предложив свою финансовую помощь ХВП, всемирной штаб-квартире ИСККОН, расположенной в этом священном царстве, Навадвипа-дхаме. Развивая Дхаму и помогая распространять ее трансцендентную славу, человек совершает самое лучшее служение, которое принесет благо не только ему, но и многим поколениям его предков и потомков.

«Те, кто изо всех сил стараются сохранить поток служения Шри Майяпуру, будут считаться благодетелями мира вайшнавов»

Шрила Бхактивинода Тхакур

Отрывок из книги

«Слава и игры Шримати Радхарани»

Его Святейшества Бхакти Пурушоттамы Свами

Слава и величие Шридхам Майяпура

Что же касается Майяпур-дхамы, то она является творением Шримати Радхарани, созданным, чтобы завлечь туда Кришну, и чтобы он забыл другую гопи. В «Ананта-самхите» Шива объясняет Парвати причину того, почему Шримати Радхарани создала столь милостивую Майяпур-дхаму. Господь Шива сказал Парвати: «Кришна, подобно пчеле, играющей в лотосе, наслаждался с Вираджей в чарующих рощах Вриндавана. Луноликая Радхика, чьи глаза подобны глазам оленя, услышав об этом от одной из сакхи, бросилась туда, чтобы найти Кришну. Видя приближающуюся Радху, Кришна исчез, а Вираджа превратилась в реку. Радхика, прейдя туда, не смогла их найти. Размышляя о Кришне, она начала думать о том, как сделать, чтобы Кришна больше привлекался Ею, а не Вираджей.

Она созвала всех Своих сакхи в месте между реками Ямуной и Гангой, и там Она сотворила прекрасное место, украшенное многочисленными растениями и деревьями, в которых летали пчелы. Там было множество семей оленей, и воздух был полон ароматов цветов жасмина, маллики и малати. Эта трансцендентная обитель была украшена лесами из Туласи и различными рощами. Сами Ганга и Ямуна, повинуясь указаниям Радхики, подобно рву, заполненному водой, окружали этот сад. Там птицы непрерывно воспевали благоприятные имена Кришны, и сам Купидон, в сопровождении весны, навсегда нашел в этом месте свое прибежище.

Затем Радха, одевшись в прекрасные разноцветные одежды, начала играть на флейте прекрасную мелодию для того, чтобы привлечь Кришну. Услышав эту мелодию, Кришна, явился в этом восхитительном месте. Видя, что Он пришел, Радхика, которая привлекает ум Кришны, взяла Его за руку, и Ее заполнили чувства экстатичного восторга. Тогда Кришна, поняв Ее чувства, заговорил запинающимся от любви голосом.

«О обворожительная Радха, Ты моя жизнь. Нет никого для Меня дороже, чем Ты. Поэтому я никогда не покину Тебя. Лишь для Меня ты создала это восхитительное место. Здесь Я навсегда останусь с Тобой и сделаю так, что тут появятся новые сакхи и рощи. Преданные будут прославлять это место как Новый (нава) Вриндаван. И поскольку оно напоминает остров (двипа), его будут называть Навадвипа. По Моему приказу тут будут находиться все святые места паломничества. И поскольку Ты создала это место для Моего удовлетворения, Я буду вечно пребывать здесь. Те, кто будут приходить сюда и поклоняться нам, без сомнения, обретут вечное служение в настроении сакхи. О дорогая Радха, это место также чисто, как и Вриндаван. Придя сюда даже один раз, человек обретет благо равное посещению всех святых мест. Он быстро достигнет преданного служения и удовлетворит нас».

Господь Шива продолжал: «О Парвати, такова причина появления Навадвипы. Кто бы ни услышал этот рассказ, освободится от всех грехов и обретет преданное служение. Любой, кто, вставая ранним утром, будет повторять либо слушать эту историю сотворения Навадвипы с преданностью Господу Гауре, достигнет Его, вне всякого сомнения.

НОВОСТИ ХВП – БУДЬТЕ В КУРСЕ

Посетите ХВП: www.tovp.org
Читайте о ХВП: www.facebook.com/tovp.mayapur
Смотрите о ХВП: www.youtube.com/user/tovpinfo
Поддержите ХВП: www.tovp.org/ru/donate/seva-opportunities/
Загрузите приложение ХВП для мобильного телефона: www.tovp.org/ru/announcements-ru/new-tovp-phone-app-goes-live/

The post Радхаштами 2018 и ХВП appeared first on Temple of the Vedic Planetarium.